The Great Break:War and Revolution (Chap. 27)

In the summer of 1914, Britain watched as relationships deteriorated and Eastern Europe tumbled closer to war. With the spark provided through the assassination of archduke Franz Ferdinand, Eastern Europe quickly became engulfed after alliances brought multiple countries into what should have been a small scuffle. As countries all over Europe began to militarize in preparation, it seemed that Britain would be left out of the fray. However, after Germany invaded Belgium in late 1914, Britain felt the need to step in and take control. One primary reason for the escalation of war was the idea by each side that they could win quickly. Although alliances were a main reason for joining, countries like Britain felt they had superior military capability and therefore believed it would be a short war that was an excellent opportunity to gain authority. After entering the war, Britain was effected in all aspects just like all other nations. The social impact may have been the largest of all. With so many men sent out to the front lines as war escalated each day, women were thrust into the positions these men had once held. Social equality also became a reality as men and women could find work, bolstering the economy while improving rights for the lower classes. At the end of the war, Britain was quite skeptical. Surprisingly, they never completely ratified the Treaty of Versailles. Britain's main goal at the Treaty was to punish Germany viciously, which was eventually carried out with French support. The war also left an impact on Britain that would eventually plunge them back into war: after a war fought for such foolish reasons, Britain was left wary of war, eventually leading to World War II.